Nigeria has said it may consider retaliatory measures against South Africa following renewed hostility toward Nigerians and other black African migrants in the country.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, made the remarks while expressing Nigeria’s displeasure over what she described as targeted treatment of African migrants in South Africa.
She said Nigeria was particularly concerned given its historic support for South Africa during the anti-apartheid struggle.
“Nigeria is not happy because Nigeria has sacrificed much for the South African struggle for independence. Nigeria sacrificed quite a lot, committed funds, committed resources to aid South Africa,” she said.
The minister recalled Nigeria’s past solidarity efforts, including educational support and international advocacy against apartheid.
“In schools, seats were reserved for South African students. My own generation, we carried placards. We demonstrated in front of South African assets. Sometimes, we even got arrested for doing this,” she said.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu expressed concern that current hostility appeared to be directed specifically at black African migrants.
“They are not asking other migrants to leave. They’re only asking black migrants to leave,” she said.
When asked whether Nigeria was considering retaliatory action, the minister said such options were under review but would require broader government approval.
“Well, that is a situation that we are considering. This is up to our legislature. This is a decision that has to be taken at the highest level of government, but it’s not off the table,” she stated.
She also condemned the treatment of Nigerians in South Africa, alleging that many legitimate residents were being affected by violence and xenophobic attacks.
“So, our citizens are imperiled; they are in distress. So, they cannot be said to be illegal migrants,” she said.
The minister added that Nigerian-owned businesses had been looted and, in some cases, set on fire amid the unrest.
The comments come amid renewed anti-migrant protests in parts of South Africa, where demonstrators have called for stricter enforcement of immigration laws and the removal of undocumented foreigners.
The protests have heightened tensions across several cities, including Johannesburg and Pretoria, where migrant communities have reported harassment and attacks.
The Nigerian government has repeatedly condemned the developments and urged South African authorities to ensure the protection of foreign nationals.
Diplomatic engagements between both countries are ongoing as Nigeria monitors the situation and explores measures to safeguard its citizens abroad.
Authorities have also begun facilitating voluntary repatriation for Nigerians who wish to return home.
More than 1,000 Nigerians are expected to participate in the return programme following registration and screening coordinated by the Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria.
The situation remains under diplomatic review as both countries seek to manage rising tensions and prevent further escalation.
